When one or both members of a couple are Jewish, a great way to respect and honor that heritage is to include elements from a traditional Jewish wedding ceremony. Depending on how devout you are, you may choose to do only some of the typical wedding traditions, but consider how adding these traditional elements can make your wedding special and meaningful.
The Chuppah
Probably the most known element of Jewish weddings, the Chuppah is a beautifully decorated altar made up of four corners and a covered roof, sometimes made out of a prayer shawl. The Chuppah represents the home you?ll create together, including those among your friends and family who support you both. Walking with family members, like mothers or fathers, to the Chuppah and reciting vows beneath it can be a wonderful way to celebrate Jewish heritage and also allows for a way for your family or friends to participate in the decorating or building of the Chuppah. Family also sometimes stands close to be the ?walls of the house? that is formed by the Chuppah, physically representing their support.
Seven Blessings
Part of the traditional ceremony for a Jewish wedding is the reciting of Seven Blessings, known as Sheva Brachot, by the rabbi or honored guests and family. In the same way that having someone sing in your wedding ceremony or recite a reading gives them a special place in the ceremony, these blessings remind the guests and couple of their Jewish heritage. It is also a chance to honor those who are very ...